Mexican Beef Chorizo Sloppy Joes

Looking to spice up your weeknight dinner with something deliciously different? Look no further than these Mexican Beef Chorizo Sloppy Joes! Imagine the savory, spicy flavor of beef chorizo melded with zesty enchilada sauce and topped with creamy avocado and crunchy corn chips. These sandwiches offer a perfect balance of taste and texture that is sure to please the entire family. This isn’t just another boring dinner; it’s a vibrant flavor explosion that will soon become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Beef Chorizo Sloppy Joes

This recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

Quick and Easy: Takes less than 30 minutes to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights.
Perfect for Beginners: Simple cooking methods make this recipe foolproof, even for novice cooks.
Ideal for the Whole Family: Kid-friendly ingredients packed with flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Economical: Uses budget-friendly ingredients without sacrificing taste, making it a great choice for meal planning.
Full of Flavor: The combination of chorizo and enchilada sauce creates a savory feast bursting with authentic Mexican flair.

The Necessary Ingredients

To make these zesty Sloppy Joes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound beef chorizo
1 cup enchilada sauce
4 hamburger buns
1 cup crunchy corn chips
1 avocado, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients

Beef Chorizo: This ingredient brings a rich, spicy flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a milder version, try using pork chorizo or chicken chorizo. For a vegetarian option, there are wonderful plant-based chorizo alternatives available.
Enchilada Sauce: This flavorful sauce is essential for that classic Mexican taste. If you don’t have enchilada sauce on hand, salsa verde or a homemade tomato sauce with spices can work well in a pinch.
Hamburger Buns: While any sturdy bun will do, whole wheat or brioche buns add a nice touch to the experience. Consider using lettuce leaves for a low-carb option!

How to Prepare the Mexican Beef Chorizo Sloppy Joes step by step

Now, let’s dive into the preparation of these mouthwatering Sloppy Joes. Follow these steps for a perfectly delicious meal!

Cook the Beef Chorizo:
- In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of beef chorizo. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. The meat should be crumbly but not overly dry.
- Pro Tip: Break up the chorizo with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning and prevent it from clumping together.
Add Enchilada Sauce:
- Drain any excess fat from the cooked chorizo. Stir in 1 cup of enchilada sauce, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Pro Tip: Taste the mixture as it simmers. Add salt and pepper to taste for an extra boost of flavor.
Toast the Buns:
- While the chorizo simmers, you can toast the hamburger buns if desired. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, about 2 minutes.
- Pro Tip: Toasting is optional, but it adds a delightful crunch and prevents the buns from becoming soggy.
Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
- Spoon generous portions of the chorizo mixture onto the toasted buns.
- Pro Tip: Use a ladle for easy and mess-free assembly!
Top with Corn Chips and Avocado:
- Add a handful of crunchy corn chips on top of the chorizo, followed by slices of avocado.
- Pro Tip: Mash some avocado with lime juice and salt for a delicious spread if you prefer.
Serve Immediately:
- Serve your Sloppy Joes while they’re hot to enjoy the full depth of flavors.
- Pro Tip: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of cheese for an added twist!

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your dining experience with these serving suggestions:

Perfect Pairings

Drinks: Serve with an ice-cold Mexican beer, like a Corona or Modelo, or a refreshing margarita.
Sides: Pair with a side of Mexican street corn (elote) or a fresh cucumber salad for added crunch.

Occasions

Weeknight Dinner: Perfect for a quick family meal that feels like a treat!
Game Day: These Sloppy Joes are ideal for casual gatherings and sporting events.

Serving Tips

Serve on a large platter for a buffet-style dinner, allowing everyone to build their own Sloppy Joes.
Provide extra toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or shredded lettuce for customization.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Sloppy Joes delicious and fresh, here’s how to store and reheat them properly:

Refrigerated

Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Type of Container: Glass containers work well since they seal tightly, preserving moisture and flavor.

Freezed

If Possible: You can freeze the chorizo mixture for up to 2 months.
Packaging: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

Best Method: Reheat the chorizo mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Guaranteed Success Tips

To ensure your Mexican Beef Chorizo Sloppy Joes turn out perfectly every time, keep these golden rules in mind:

Don’t overcook the chorizo: This can lead to dry meat. Cook until just browned for a juicy texture.
Adjust spice levels: If you like it hot, consider adding some chopped jalapeños to the mix.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh avocado and crispy corn chips enhance the flavor and texture of your sandwich.
Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning during cooking for the best flavor.

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations you can try:

For a spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon of Espelette pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the chorizo while cooking.
For a vegan version: Substitute the beef chorizo with plant-based chorizo and use vegan buns.
For a cheesy twist: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese into the chorizo mixture during the last few minutes of cooking until melted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of chorizo?
A: Yes, but you may want to add some spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder to give it that classic chorizo flavor.

Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free hamburger buns or serve the chorizo on a bed of lettuce for a low-carb alternative.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?
A: Absolutely! Look for mild chorizo or reduce the amount of enchilada sauce used.

Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the chorizo mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just reheat and assemble!

Q: What are the best toppings for Sloppy Joes?
A: Fresh cilantro, diced onions, and shredded cheese are all fantastic options that enhance flavor!

Q: Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?
A: Of course! Homemade enchilada sauce can add a personal touch and is a great way to customize the flavors.

Q: How do I know if the chorizo is cooked properly?
A: The chorizo should be browned and crumbly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

Get ready to make mealtime exciting with these Mexican Beef Chorizo Sloppy Joes! Your family will love the flavorful twist on a classic dish, and you’ll feel satisfied knowing you served up something truly delicious. Happy cooking!